Four Hawks Earn Coveted Spots in VFL State Team Squad – Who Made the Cut?

Box Hill will have strong representation in the Smithy’s VFL State Team squad, with Callum Porter, Ethan Stanley, Kye Declase, and Sam Durdin all earning selections among the league’s top players. The 43-player squad has been announced ahead of the highly anticipated 2025 AAMI State Game, where the VFL will face off against the SANFL at Tanunda Recreation Park in the Barossa on Saturday, April 12, during the AFL’s Gather Round.

Two of Box Hill’s representatives, Kye Declase and Callum Porter, bring valuable experience to the squad, having previously played in last year’s VFL State Team. Porter, who captained Box Hill in 2024, was one of the club’s two representatives in that matchup. He has started the 2025 season in strong form, leading the Hawks to a narrow four-point victory over Carlton last week, where he recorded 16 disposals, nine contested possessions, and a goal.

Ethan Stanley has also made an impact early in the season after rejoining Box Hill in Round 1 following a stint on Fremantle’s AFL list. In his return game, he showcased his playmaking ability, collecting 18 disposals, seven inside 50s, and four score involvements.

Kye Declase, who joined Box Hill from Werribee ahead of the 2025 season, brings a wealth of VFL experience, having played 57 games for the Tigers, including their 2023 Grand Final appearance. In his club debut for the Hawks last week, Declase impressed with 25 disposals, 11 marks, and four inside 50s.

Meanwhile, Sam Durdin has yet to make his debut in Box Hill colors but is regarded as a key acquisition for the club. The former Carlton-listed defender has built a strong reputation through his 24 VFL games with the Blues’ reserves, known for his ability to take intercept and contested marks.

The VFL State Team will be eager to redeem itself in this year’s AAMI State Game after falling to the SANFL squad by 14 points in the 2024 clash. Leading the team once again will be Box Hill Senior Coach and Hawthorn Development Coach, Zane Littlejohn, who has been reappointed as the VFL State Team’s head coach for a second consecutive year.

The 2025 AAMI State Game will take place on Saturday, April 12, at Tanunda Recreation Park, with the match scheduled to begin at 2:45 pm local time (3:15 pm AEST).